Frame Lake is an urban lake sitting in the heart of Yellowknife, circled by a well-maintained walking and cycling trail of about 4 kilometres. In summer, it is the city's main outdoor recreation space — locals jog the trail, picnic on the banks, and watch the sun set late into the evening. The path passes the Legislative Assembly, the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre, and several sculptures and public artworks. In winter the lake freezes solid and the trail becomes a cross-country ski loop.
The lake and its surroundings are also a decent spot for birdwatching in spring and autumn. The wilderness lies very close to the city, and it is not unusual to see ravens, Arctic terns, and occasionally larger visitors near the water. Frame Lake is the easiest introduction to what makes Yellowknife unusual among Canadian cities — its proximity to genuine wild country.